Destiny, 25 years old

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Destiny is a young adult who entered foster care at 16 and was placed in a residential group home for young women. The experience of being placed in foster care was challenging for her, especially with all the changes occurring in her life. Her main goal at that time was to finish high school, turn 18, and start living her life. She was uncertain about attending college and unsure of what her passions were. Everything changed when Destiny met CASA-NYC's Executive Director. Through this connection, she gained a deeper understanding of herself and discovered what truly inspired her. She realized her desire to help other youth in foster care so they wouldn’t have to face the same struggles she encountered. She also recognized the importance of having a supportive adult figure in a young person’s life. This realization sparked a transformation in Destiny’s life. She became CASA's first youth fellow, enrolled in college to pursue a degree in social work, and became an active participant in various youth advocacy forums. Destiny is a dedicated member of CASA's Youth Advisory Board and was also the first Youth Fellow. She has participated in numerous Youth Panels and is deeply passionate about advocacy. She is currently interning at NYJTL in Queens. Outside of CASA NYC, she also works with FYCSI (Foster Youth College Success Initiative), GEMS (Girls Educational and Mentoring Services), and College Choice.

Destiny is currently pursuing her BA in Social Work. She will graduate in May 2025, and her commencement ceremony is scheduled for May 30th. She has already been accepted into Silberman’s Advanced Standing MSW program and will begin in Fall 2025. Registration opens on May 13th. Graduate school is a rare opportunity for many young adults in foster care, and Destiny is grateful for the chance to pursue it. Destiny is actively seeking scholarship opportunities to support her education as she works toward her MSW. With her upcoming enrollment in Silberman’s Advanced Standing MSW program in Fall 2025, she is exploring funding options to ease the financial burden of her studies.